Benjamin Sesko explains why he rejected chance to join Arsenal this summer

Benjamin Sesko says he made the ‘right decision’ in turning down a move to Arsenal this summer.

Manchester United and Chelsea were also both interested in bringing the Slovenia international to the Premier League but the Gunners were thought to be leading the race to sign the 21-year-old in June.

Sesko had a release clause of £56million that had to be activated before the end of that month.

But the striker, who scored 14 goals in 31 appearances for RB Leipzig last season, instead committed to a new contract with the Bundesliga side.

United, Arsenal and Chelsea have all been in the marker for a new striker this summer but Sesko is confident he will be best served remaining in Germany for at least another year.

‘I thought it through very well,’ Sesko told Nogomania. ‘I believe I made the right decision. I wanted to gain more experience, learn more, and not rush things.

‘Leipzig is an excellent club that can provide what I need for the next step. Leipzig’s vision is clear; everything is geared towards growth, progress, and high goals.

‘I felt it was right to decide this way.’

Sesko’s new deal reportedly includes a gentleman’s agreement over a move away from Leipzig next year.

Former United captain Gary Neville praised the youngster for his decision during Euro 2024, believing it will ultimately benefit all parties in the long-term.

‘I think we are moving back to having a big physical striker up front the game seems to have flipped a little bit by having big defenders and big strikers,’ Neville told ITV Sport.

‘He is someone who has so much potential and you can see why Premier League clubs are interested. But I can also see why, what is being suggested, he is staying at Leipzig for another year.

‘It will give him the chance to grow without the spotlight you get on you in the Premier League and just develop his game a little bit more.’